For four decades, veteran sports photographer Juan Carlos Hidalgo has captured the drama of the FIFA World Cup, from makeshift darkrooms in stadium toilets to the digital era where his image of Lionel Messi became a global sensation. Hidalgo, who has covered 10 World Cups, recalls his humble beginnings in 1986 when he developed film in a bathroom at Mexico's Azteca Stadium.
Humble Beginnings in a Toilet Darkroom
In 1986, Hidalgo was a young photographer for a Mexican newspaper. With no dedicated darkroom, he resorted to developing film in a stadium toilet. "I had to lock myself in a toilet to develop the rolls, using chemicals I carried in my bag," he said. The results were printed on a portable enlarger balanced on the sink. Despite the crude setup, his images captured the essence of the tournament, including Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal.
The Rise of Digital and the Messi Shot
Fast forward to 2022, Hidalgo was at Lusail Stadium in Qatar when Lionel Messi scored Argentina's third goal against France in the final. His photograph of Messi celebrating with arms outstretched became an instant viral hit, shared millions of times online. "That image summed up the emotion of the entire tournament," Hidalgo explained. The photo was taken with a Canon EOS R3 at 1/1000th of a second, ISO 6400, capturing the perfect moment.
Technological Transformation
Hidalgo has witnessed the shift from film to digital, which he says has democratized sports photography. "In 1986, I had 36 exposures per roll. Now I shoot thousands of frames per match," he noted. However, he emphasizes that the core skill remains anticipation and understanding the game. "The camera is just a tool. You have to feel the rhythm of the match."
Challenges and Rewards
Covering 10 World Cups has meant long hours, heavy equipment, and intense competition among photographers. Hidalgo recalls the 1994 World Cup in the United States, where he had to navigate strict security protocols. "We were treated like potential threats," he joked. But the rewards are immense: "Seeing your photo on the front page of a newspaper or trending on Twitter makes it all worthwhile."
Advice for Aspiring Photographers
Hidalgo advises young photographers to study the game and be patient. "Don't just point and shoot. Understand the narrative of the match. The best photos tell a story," he said. He also stresses the importance of ethics: "Never manipulate the image. The truth is paramount."
A Legacy of Iconic Images
From Maradona to Messi, Hidalgo's portfolio spans generations of football greatness. His work is archived at the International Photography Hall of Fame. "Each World Cup is a chapter in my life," he reflected. "I've been lucky to witness history through my lens."
